New Group "Public Space" To Protect Homeless Wellingtonians

The Council’s proposed bylaw, which would see Wellington’s homeless banned from public areas, has met with strong community reaction.

A new group, Public Space, has formed to promote and protect the rights of all Wellingtonians. “It believes the right to exist in a public area belongs to everyone. All should be able to do as they wish in these spaces, as long as it does not undermine the safety or wellbeing of others”.

The group believes that the proposed bylaw will be detrimental to the community, remove character from the inner city and infringe on civil rights. The aim of the group is to build on public opposition to the proposal, and ensure the bylaw is not passed.

Public Space urges others to take up the cause - preserve the right to be free in the streets. The proposed bylaw is on the agenda of the next Council Committee meeting, 9 am, 5th August. Members of the public who feel strongly are encouraged to attend.

If the bylaw is passed, the group will turn to more direct action. "If this bylaw is passed we will directly challenge it by camping on the streets.", said Lenka, spokeperson.

For more information, contact Lenka on 021-147-3517.

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